Job Description:The Director of Special Student Programs provides strategic leadership, oversight, and evaluation of initiatives designed to promote the academic success, retention, and graduation of students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. The Director leads institution-wide efforts and NYSED-funded programs that prepare both pre-college and college students for success in STEM and licensed professions, working collaboratively across departments to support inclusive excellence. The Director is responsible for developing, managing, and assessing special student programs such as summer bridge programs, academic support for at-risk students, and cohort-based retention efforts.
Primary Responsibilities:- Provide leadership in the strategic planning, development, and continuous enhancement of special academic, co-curricular, or bridge programs designed to improve retention, engagement, and graduation rates.
- Supervise the NYSED-funded Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) to support the recruitment, retention, and academic success of eligible middle and high school youth interested in STEM fields and licensed professions.
- Supervise the NYSED-funded Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) to support the recruitment, retention, and graduation of eligible UAlbany undergraduate students pursuing STEM and licensed careers.
- Serve as a primary liaison to SUNY and the New York State Education Department (SED) to ensure program alignment with system-wide priorities, compliance requirements, and reporting obligations. Collaborate with departments such as Admissions, Financial Aid, Academic Affairs, and Student Affairs to coordinate services and ensure holistic support. Liaison with community and K-12 staff to build relationships and program awareness.
- Oversee budget development, fiscal management, and compliance for state-funded and institutionally supported programs; manage grant reporting, ensure adherence to funding guidelines, and identify new funding opportunities to sustain and expand program impact.
- Lead and manage direct reports/team providing guidance, support, and performance feedback to assure goals, programs, activities, and personnel practices are consistent with and contribute to the University's mission. Lead employees for maximum performance and dedication, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Complete performance management feedback and goals timely and per requirements, offering constructive feedback and developing improvement plans.
- Assessment and Reporting: Measuring the impact of programs through data collection and reporting on outcomes to internal stakeholders or external funders.
- Other reasonable duties as assigned
Functional and Supervisory Relationships:- Reports to: Assistant Dean of the Minerva Center
- Supervises the following positions: STEP and CSTEP Senior Program Coordinators, STEP and CSTEP Assistant Program Coordinators, Administrative Assistant
Job Requirements:- Strong interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to foster collaboration across departments
- Excellent organizational skills
Requirements:Minimum Qualifications:- Master's degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, or a related field from a college or University accredited by the US Department of Education or an internationally recognized accrediting organization
- 5+ years of progressive experience in program leadership within higher education or related fields (e.g., nonprofit, community-based organizations, workforce development), with demonstrated commitment to student development and advancing equity for underrepresented populations
- Demonstrated experience directing grant-funded programs, particularly those related to STEM education and pipeline development (e.g., STEP/CSTEP)
- Supervisory experience
- Applicants must demonstrate an ability to develop inclusive and equitable relationships within our diverse campus community
- Applicants must demonstrate an ability to support diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging relative to their role
Preferred Qualifications:- PhD in Higher Education or a related field from a college or University accredited by the US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization
- 8+ years of experience working in special student programs like C/STEP or EOP
Working Environment:- Typical office environment
Additional Information:Professional Rank and Salary Grade: Director Special Student Programs, SL4, $85,000-$95,000
Special Note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. If you currently need sponsorship or will need it in the future to maintain employment authorization, you do not meet eligibility requirements.
Please apply online via http://albany.interviewexchange.com/candapply.jsp?JOBID=193406
Application Instructions:Applicants MUST submit the following documents:- Resume
- Cover letter stating all the required minimum qualifications and any of the applicable preferred qualifications
- List of 3 professional references with e-mail addresses and telephone numbers
Note: After submitting your resume, the subsequent pages give you instructions for uploading additional documents (i.e. cover letter etc.).
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A review of applications will start on February 5, 2026 and the search will remain open until the position is filled. 
